Grateful for You, Thankful to God, and Ready for the New Year
Through smiles and tears, through laughter and fear,
we’ve carried the weight of another hard year.
The struggles now rest, the season has passed,
new blessings await as we step from the past.
A year not forgotten, both fragile and strong,
with moments of stillness where God drew me on.
There was time spent with Him, time learning to rest,
time trusting His plans, believing He knows best.
What started alone, a small blog, a page,
a place just to lay down my words on the stage,
grew into a family, voices that see
that walking with God is true liberty.
Six hundred and more now gathered in place,
hearts learning together what faith really means.
Yes, pain found a voice, and sorrow had days,
but so did God’s power in unexpected ways.
A new job appeared, weekends returned,
lessons were learned, and blessings were earned.
Another year living, together we stand,
somewhat still weary, yet held in His hand.
I will not complain, and neither will we,
not Leo the Lion nor David the Fox.
My wife and our boys lift grateful hearts high,
for we’ve seen Him move when the timing was right.
Your will, Lord, not mine, is the prayer that we pray,
trusting You lead us each step of the way.
Leo and David found WordPress their home,
with Ernie the Dawg, no longer alone.
They found so much love, their names gently known,
woven together, a story God’s grown.
Friendships were formed, both near and afar,
some held close, some shining like stars.
Some I long to embrace, to worship beside,
honored to call them family in Christ.
So from my blog to yours, from our home to your door,
I wish you God’s peace now and always and more.
May joy fill your days, may patience increase,
may love overflow and your spirit find peace.
For some, may this year bring healing anew,
a holy turnaround only God can do.
This is our year, let the darkness retreat,
let truth rise loud where the broken hearts beat.
Jesus is King, let the whole world be told,
Lord of all lords, yesterday, now, and forever He holds.
Walk into this year unashamed and restored,
held by His mercy, secured in the Lord.
Lift up your eyes, you are never alone,
You Are deeply Loved, and forever His own.
Willie Torres Jr.
1/1/2026
@BeingCrazyForChrist
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Willie Torres Jr. 
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